FixByModel
3C

Samsung 3C: Wash (circulation) pump / motor fault

The control board detected a fault with the wash circulation pump, so water isn't being sprayed onto the dishes properly. It can be a temporary glitch, a debris jam, or a failing pump motor.

May need a technician

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. Circulation (wash) pump motor fault
  2. Debris jamming the pump or filter
  3. Wiring or inverter fault to the pump
  4. Control board fault
Before you start — unplug the appliance and turn off the water supply. You'll be working near water and electrical parts, and drained water can be hot. If a step involves the pump, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Power-cycle resetTurn off the circuit breaker for about 60 seconds, then restore power.
2Clean the filterRemove and clean the filter and sump to clear any debris near the pump.
3Run a test cycleStart a normal cycle and check whether the code returns.
4Call a technicianIf 3C persists, the wash pump likely needs professional testing or replacement.

Still showing 3C?

If you’ve worked through every step and 3C keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

Samsung dishwashers. Most Samsung dishwashers (wash-pump/inverter models).

FAQ

What does Samsung 3C mean?

Wash (circulation) pump / motor fault. The control board detected a fault with the wash circulation pump, so water isn't being sprayed onto the dishes properly. It can be a temporary glitch, a debris jam, or a failing pump motor.

What causes Samsung 3C?

The most likely cause is circulation (wash) pump motor fault. Other causes include Debris jamming the pump or filter; Wiring or inverter fault to the pump; Control board fault.

Can I fix Samsung 3C myself?

Some checks are DIY, but this code often points to an internal component, so it may need a qualified technician.